Solar Eclipse at Pacific Lutheran University

On Aug. 21, the moon will pass between the earth and the sun creating an amazing celestial display visible across the United States. Although our corner of Washington won’t experience a total solar eclipse, it will come close — about 94 percent of the sun will be blocked by the moon. PLU invites the public to view the eclipse and will provide the eclipse glasses, space experts, and activities — you bring your excitement and curiosity.

8:30-9 a.m. Eclipse Presentation
Anderson University Center, Room 201

Physics Professor Sean O’Neill will explain how and why eclipses happen. He’ll also discuss how you will safely view the solar eclipse and answer your questions.

9 a.m. Eclipse Begins
Red Square

We’ll be moving outside to PLU’s Red Square where around 9:08 a.m. you’ll see the silhouette of the Moon begin to creep across the Sun. Join PLU faculty, staff, and students in safely viewing this amazing event and participate in activities and crafts in order to learn more about the Moon and solar system. (Chairs and complimentary beverages will be available.)

10:20 a.m. Maximum Eclipse

While the Sun won’t be completely blocked in our area, you will experience the maximum phase of the eclipse, with 94 percent of the Sun shaded by the Moon at around 10:20 a.m. This stage will last about two minutes and 40 seconds.

11:38 a.m. Eclipse Complete

At this point, the Moon will have crossed the Sun and the eclipse is complete.

Activities at PLU

Decorate your own Washington state-shaped pinhole projector

Get your face painted with a Sun, Moon, or star

Participate in a “Total Eclipse of the Heart” sing-along with members of PLUtonic Acappella – PLU’s premier men’s a cappella group

Explore the mysterious properties of Moon mud and Moon sand

Visit the photo booth for a space selfie with Sun, Moon, and outer space props